A Grateful State of Mind

Am I always in a grateful state of mind? Honest answer, no. But before my journey in recovery began — gratitude was a foreign concept.

My view of the world was distorted and playing the victim role was comfortable. I was hiding behind my own lies, telling myself and everyone else I didn’t have a problem with alcohol. No matter how hard I tried to deceive myself, it was impossible to conceal my shame, guilt, and remorse. I constantly blamed external factors for my internal struggles. With such a negative perspective, how could I perceive anything positive?

Through years of long-term sobriety, while every day isn’t perfect, I feel and experience gratitude on levels I never imagined. When days are difficult or my thinking takes a wrong turn, I have tools to get back on the right track. Sometimes all I have to do is stop for a moment, take a deep breath and ask my Higher Power to take over. Other times reaching out to friends who support my recovery journey brings me back to center. Sometimes it’s as simple as asking the question out loud, “What am I grateful for right this second?”

As this season of thanksgiving approaches, I invite you to create space for yourself. Grab a notepad and let the blessings flow—write down everything that makes you feel grateful, thankful, or blessed. I believe you’ll find your list is rich, long and filled with love.

Thank you to all of our contributors for providing your expertise and being a valuable resource to our community. 

In gratitude, Barbara